ONE of Southend’s most historic buildings is at risk of rapid deterioration, after being left vacant by the Ministry of Defence.

Manor House, a Grade II listed property in Suttons Road, south Shoebury, has suffered from both a “serious dry rot problem,” and “ongoing water ingress due to defective rainwater goods,” according to Historic England, the organisation which advises the government on listed buildings.

It is based on land owned by the MoD, and is currently vacant after being last used as residential quarters. Historic England says the property has suffered serious deterioration and warned that the property could be lost in the future..

The organisation said: “Re-use of the building is complicated by its location within a military site.

“A serious dry rot problem was treated 1998 to 2003 but has caused considerable damage to the interior. The building has been vacant for many years.

“Rigid application of three-year break clause in all long leases granted by Ministry of Defence has seriously worsened potential for reuse by charitable trusts.”

Manor House was built 440 years ago, and is one of only two sites in Southend rated as being at risk by Historic England.

Its owners include three generations of the famous Knapping family, before being sold to the Ministry of Defence in 1890.

The interior is believed to still have wooden panelling, an oak staircase, servant quarters, and around nine bedrooms.

Shoebury historian Laura Adkins said: “Not only is the house itself historic but those who occupied the house for a time, such as the Knapping family, have also played a part in the history of Shoebury and its identity.

“I think it is a huge shame it is at risk, as once these buildings are gone, there’s no getting them back and buildings hold a great link to our past and identity.

“Even if the building is in a poor condition, I feel buildings that have a historic significance should be preserved with as much intact as possible.

“Personally, I think they should even be used to help tell their story for the town as a heritage centre or museum.”